Motorad

Never been to a Michigan metro park, but received a map of their 13(?) parks yesterday. Here's a website that describes these metro parks, and where you can order maps:
https://www.metroparks.com/activities/biking.php

I can foresee wanting to ride off-road in Michigan metro parks ... if that is permitted in these parks? For non-agressive off-road riding ... by a 50-year old office dweller ... which would provide a more reliable ride with some degree of comfort: Trek 7.7 FX fitness bike or Trek X02 cyclocross?

There would also be paved riding involved for the bikes being considered, so why would I choose either the 7.7 FX or the X02 cyclocross?

hamr22

I think it depends on your machismo and sense of style. Both bikes are pretty pricey for your purpose. In general, I think you would like the ride of the fx and the studliness of the xo. The xo would have low handlebars, and unless you have the flexibility to bend over and comfortably touch the floor withtout bending your knees, you won't get more than 30 minutes of pain-free riding out of it. For 1/3 to 1/2 the price you would have just as much fun on a 7.5fx.

Might I suggest a soma juice (https://www.somafab.com/juice29.html) with a rigid fork and a nexus 8 speed set of wheels (https://sheldonbrown.com/harris/wheelsint.html). Tell the bike shop to cut the steer tube long so you can have a more upright position. The bike has a good blend of cool/comfort/versatility/simplicity.

cyclodan

Except for Stony Creek there's not much off road riding to be had in most of the Metroparks. There you'll find 12-15 miles of MTB trails and only the most hardcore (read: crazy!) would want to ride a 'cross bike on those trails.
Kensington is connected to nearby Island Lake Recreation Area by a paved link and there you'll find milder MTB trails somewhat suitable to 'cross if you got the skills.
That said I see you are in the downriver area and therefore would probably be riding mostly Willow Springs right? Not much offroading to be had there that I know of.
I'm sure you will find little bits of 2 track here and there but the main feature of the big MetroParks are their extensive network of paved paths.
As far as the choice between the "fitness" bike or the cross bike I'd say stop in to your nearest friendly Trek dealer and get some saddle time of both of them.

kirkaptain

I used to live in Rochester and recommend Paint Creek Trail. It runs about 10 miles (IIRC) from Rochester to Lake Orion and follows the creek for the majority of its length. While very flat and a might too wide (old RR bed), it is peaceful and car-free.

Near Lake Orion, there are some bits where I would not take a road bike, but it is way to smooth to warant an MTB. Cyclocross would be perfect.